£2m wine bar launches in Harrogate
AN unlikely pair have teamed up to launch a restaurant and wine bar.
Developer Ian Humphreys and rising star chef 23 year-old Michael Carr are launching new Harrogate sites.
Restaurant 92 and The Optimist wine bar are located at 92-94 Station Parade.
The pair promise “high quality dishes” and “heartier Yorkshire portions” at the 80-cover restaurant.
Mr Humphreys spent £2m on the development of the sites, which have created 12 jobs. Mr Carr, who launched his career at Rudding Park, has a 30% stake in the restaurant.
Mr Carr worked at Michelin-starred restaurants in London including Gordon Ramsay’s at Claridge’s and Alyn Williams at the Westbury.
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Founder Ian Humphreys, who owns a number of businesses and properties in Harrogate, the UK and overseas, said: “Harrogate has more than 200 restaurants and some great places to eat. But what Michael and I feel is missing is that special mix of fine dining with somewhere you love and can afford to go regularly.
“The Optimist will also bring something unique to the town. In addition to complementing the restaurant, it will offer an unrivalled selection of wines to suit every taste alongside craft beers and and a small, but taste-packed, menu of charcuterie and cheeses.”
Mr Carr said: “Ian and I share a vision for Restaurant 92 – fine dining with a twist and heartier Yorkshire portions. I want to use traditional English recipes, updated for the 21st century with foraged fruit and vegetables where possible.
“I am also keen to feature Yorkshire meats and produce and I want a close relationship with our suppliers. We are pitching the food and prices so that people come here regularly, not just for special occasions.”
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